Super Eagles’ upcoming World Cup playoff semi-final against Gabon national football team has ignited a wave of dissent among Nigerian football fans after FIFA appointed South African match officials to oversee the fixture.
On November 13, Nigeria will face Gabon in Morocco in one of Africa’s crucial playoff semi-finals. The winner will advance to face either DR Congo national football team or Cameroon national football team for a place in the inter-continental playoff. According to the appointment list, Tom Abongile of South Africa will serve as the centre referee, with compatriots Zakhele Siwela as an assistant referee and Akhona Makalima in charge of VAR.
The reactions on Nigerian social media were swift and intense. Many fans pointed out that both Nigeria and South Africa were in the same Group C during the qualifiers. South Africa topped that group, while Nigeria secured its playoff place as one of the best runners-up after defeating Benin national football team 4-0 on the final match day.
Adding fuel to the fire, South Africa’s Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie had previously made public comments suggesting he did not want Nigeria to qualify for the World Cup. This has heightened concerns among Nigerians regarding the neutrality of the officiating team.
Why This Matters
The credibility of crucial matches depends heavily on perceived neutrality of officiating. With Nigeria facing a pivotal semi-final and past group ties between officials’ country and one of the competitors, fans believe the appointment undermines trust.
What’s Next
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and other stakeholders may raise concerns with FIFA’s refereeing committee. Meanwhile, the match is just days away and focus will shift to performance on the pitch.
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